LOWELLVILLE, OH- This week on YSN’s “Coach’s Corner,” Eric Hughes sat down with Lowellville’s dedicated Cross Country Coach, Eric Grow, who opened up about his journey, challenges, and sources of inspiration as he heads into his fifth year of coaching.

Grow, who began his coaching career in football, made the transition to cross country when Lowellville found themselves in need of a coach. “I had some running background, so I just filled the shoes,” he recalls.

Recruiting for the team presents a unique challenge in a school with a graduating class of just 31 students. “The amount of kids that we have to even try to recruit is very tiny,” Grow notes. Despite these limitations, he’s driven by his passion for making an impact on the students. “My favorite part of coaching is just seeing the impact I can make on the kids and hopefully see them grow,” he shared.

A highlight from Grow’s tenure as coach came when his team nearly made it to regionals for the first time in Lowellville’s history. Unfortunately, a tie for fourth place meant they didn’t advance, but the experience remains a powerful memory.

Among his team members, Grow speaks highly of leaders like Kenzie McCornick and Nathan Yon. Not only does Kenzie bring positivity and support to her fellow runners, but Nathan’s dedication — even balancing golf with his running training — sets a strong example for others.

Grow also emphasizes the mental aspect of running. “It’s definitely a mental sport… It’s hard to teach that. So, luckily, I have a lot of kids that are, you know, pretty well with that.”

Citing his own high school coach, Stephanie Yon, as a major influence, Grow acknowledges her critical role in guiding him into his coaching career. “She was a great role model as a coach. I wouldn’t be here without her,” he said.

His commitment to Lowellville runs deep, as an alumnus and community member. “My whole goal was to come back and teach and coach and try to continue to make this community grow,” Grow reflected.

With the season underway, Coach Grow remains focused on maintaining a positive atmosphere and encouraging his runners to “win that mental battle every day.” His dedication promises to inspire not only his athletes but the entire Lowellville community.

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